Concerned that the Red Sox would not be able to re-sign free agent-to-be Nomar Garciaparra, general manager Theo Epstein completed a shocking four-team trade that sent the five-time all-star to the Cubs. At one point, Garciaparra was the Red Sox's most popular player, but the relationship soured and management felt they could address the team's Achilles heel — defense — by acquiring two former Gold Glovers in Cabrera and Mientkiewicz.

Who came out on top: Boston Red Sox. At first, Red Sox nation was wondering if this was just another blight in the continuing Curse of the Bambino, but the move panned out as Cabrera and Mientkiewicz provided steady play, assisting the Red Sox to their first World Series win since 1918.

Number 2

NBA - 2004

Rasheed Wallace had an NBA history that included marijuana misdemeanors, temper tantrums and referee rifts, but that didn't deter the Pistons from acquiring the talented forward in 2004. Wallace, a dynamic threat because of his size and ability to shoot, was the missing component in a contender looking to become a champion. With 'Sheed in Motown, the Pistons would go on to stun the heavily favored Los Angeles Lakers and win the NBA Championship.

Who came out on top: Detroit Pistons. Wallace focused solely on basketball in Detroit and his passion proved to be inspirational for the Pistons in the playoffs when he guaranteed a win over Indiana. Every other player involved in the trade is part of a different roster now.

The Rangers were well on their way to the President's Trophy (awarded to the NHL team with the best record in the regular season), but they didn't mind tinkering with their roster and added four players to the mix. Each would become an integral contributor, especially MacTavish with his leadership and face-off prowess, and Matteau, who scored two overtime winning goals in the Conference Finals against the New Jersey Devils.

Who came out on top: New York Rangers. The Rangers only traded away one blue chip prospect, Amonte, who blossomed into a scoring machine, but the others would not be missed. Gartner was inconsistent after his departure and Marchant was no better than a second-line player. Meanwhile, the Rangers ended their 54-year Stanley Cup drought.

when the last minute counts

Keep an eye on those trade deadlines because sometimes the last minute can be the most productive minute.